Key snapped in the lock
A key snapped in the cylinder is a situation where every extra attempt costs money: most of the cylinder replacements billed in these cases could have been avoided if nobody had persisted.
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This is your situation if…
- Part of the key is left in the cylinder, the rest is in your hand.
- The key broke while turning, often on a lock that had been stiff for a while.
- The fragment is visible in the slot, or pushed fully in.
Do this now
- 1Stop trying immediately: each attempt pushes the fragment deeper.
- 2Don't use aerosol lubricant or cooking oil: it binds the filings and makes extraction harder.
- 3Note whether the door is open or closed: they're different jobs at different prices.
- 4Call us and describe the cylinder brand if it's readable on the faceplate.
Do not do this
- Don't try to pull the fragment out with tweezers or a needle: that's what drives it to the back.
- Don't use glue to retrieve the piece — a common online tip that reliably destroys the cylinder.
- Don't force the spare key in on top of the fragment.
How we deal with it
The tradesperson removes the fragment with a proper key extractor, then tests the cylinder. If the mechanism is unharmed the job stops there: the key is cut again and the cylinder stays.
If the break came from a worn cylinder, which is common, replacement is proposed and priced before it happens. A key that snaps is nearly always the symptom of a tired mechanism rather than an isolated accident.
What it costs
| Opening a slammed door, no damage | €110 incl. VAT |
| Opening a locked door, or with damage | €150 incl. VAT |
Starting prices including VAT, travel included. The exact amount is confirmed on the phone before anyone travels, and agreed on site before work begins.
Frequently asked questions
Does the cylinder always need replacing?
No. In a good share of cases extraction is enough and the cylinder is reusable. Replacement is justified when the mechanism is worn or damaged by extraction attempts — which is why not trying first matters.
What does extraction cost?
It falls under the door-opening price, quoted on the phone before travel. If a cylinder replacement turns out to be needed, it's a separate amount, agreed with you before fitting.
Need a locksmith in the area?
Call us directly for an emergency, or describe what you need to get an estimate before any work begins.